What Are the Official Handball Competition Rules in English? A Comprehensive Guide

Handball is a dynamic and fast-paced team sport enjoyed worldwide. For players, coaches, referees, and enthusiasts seeking to understand the game at an international level, familiarity with the official handball competition rules in English is essential. This guide provides a clear overview of the core regulations as governed by the International Handball Federation (IHF).

1. The Court and Basic Objectives A standard handball court is 40 meters long and 20 meters wide, with goals at each end. The primary objective is to score by throwing the ball into the opponent's goal. Players may advance the ball by dribbling (similar to basketball) or passing, but they cannot take more than three steps without dribbling or hold the ball for more than three seconds while stationary.

2. Team Composition and Player Roles Each team consists of seven players on the court: one goalkeeper and six outfield players. Substitutions are unlimited and can be made at any time through a designated area. Specific handball regulations define the distinct roles and privileges, especially for the goalkeeper, who is the only player allowed to touch the ball with their feet within the goal area.

3. Fundamental Rules of Play

• Passing and Movement: The ball is primarily moved through passing. The "three-step" and "three-second" rules are fundamental to maintaining the game's flow.
• The Goal Area: Only the defending goalkeeper may enter the goal area (the six-meter line). An attacking player entering this area results in a turnover, while a defender entering it to gain an advantage leads to a penalty throw.
• Contact and Defense: Defensive players use their bodies to obstruct attackers. However, handball rules strictly prohibit grabbing, hitting, holding, or pushing an opponent. Such actions are considered fouls.

4. Fouls, Penalties, and Sanctions Understanding infringements is crucial. Common fouls include illegal contact, charging, and entering the goal area. Sanctions escalate based on severity:

• Free Throw: Awarded for minor infractions, taken from the spot of the foul.
• Penalty Throw (7-meter throw): Awarded when a clear chance to score is illegally prevented.
• Warnings (Yellow Card): For significant or repeated fouls.
• Suspensions (2-minute): For serious fouls or repeated warnings.
• Disqualification (Red Card): For very severe offenses, resulting in the player's expulsion.

5. Key Gameplay Mechanics: The Throw-off, Throw-in, and Corner The game starts with a throw-off at center court. A throw-in is awarded when the ball fully crosses the sideline. If the ball goes over the end line off a defender (excluding the goalkeeper), the attacking team gets a corner throw, similar to soccer.

For anyone involved in the sport, from organizing a local match to competing internationally, mastering these handball game rules is the first step toward success. The complete and official IHF rulebook, available in English, remains the definitive source for all technical details and updates. Whether you're clarifying handball fouls and penalties or studying advanced tactics, a solid grasp of the regulations enhances both performance and enjoyment of this exciting global sport.